By Jason Alderman, Visa Financial Education Program director<\/p>\n
The last few years have been tough economically for many people. Unemployment fears combined with plunging home, stock and retirement account values caused many to forgo big vacations \u2013 even though stressful times are when we most need to recharge our batteries.<\/p>\n
But with the economy turning around, many families are cautiously dipping their toes in the travel pool once again. Hotel occupancy rates have risen in many areas and airports are as crowded as ever.<\/p>\n
Airlines and hotels are notorious for tacking extra charges onto their bills. Here are a few to watch out for:<\/p>\n
\u2022 A few airlines allow one free checked bag (Southwest still allows two), but most charge up to $25 for the first checked bag each way, and even more for additional pieces. Plus, most now tack on hefty fees for overweight and over-sized checked and carry-on luggage, so measure and weigh your luggage carefully.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Expect to pay extra for things like changing flights, extra leg room, priority boarding, unaccompanied minors, pets, Wi-Fi access and food. Some airlines even charge extra to speak to a live person or to buy your ticket at the airport counter or by phone.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Airfarewatchdog.com, Travelnerd.com and Kayak.com offer great fee comparison charts for various airlines; but always double-check the airline\u2019s own posted rules before booking your flight.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Some hotels charge extra if you check in before a certain time. Ask whether they\u2019ll store your luggage for free until check-in so you can begin sightseeing unencumbered.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Many hotels charge a hefty penalty if you don\u2019t cancel a reservation 24 to 72 hours beforehand and some also charge an early-departure fee, sometimes the equivalent of one night\u2019s lodging. Read the hotel\u2019s cancellation policy before booking, especially if you\u2019re looking at a discounted, non-refundable rate.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Minibars often have electronic sensors that trigger a charge if you simply move the contents. Also, water or snacks sitting on the dresser may appear to be complimentary, but double-check before consuming.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Hotel parking in major cities can cost up to $50 a day, and many have mandatory valet parking, which means adding a tip on top of that. Research nearby municipal parking lots beforehand, or check the city\u2019s tourism bureau for hotels offering parking promotions. Sometimes using public transportation and taxis is cheaper overall than paying for parking.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Resorts often charge extra for services they offer \u2013 such as gym access or daily newspaper delivery \u2013 even if you don\u2019t use them. Find out the policy ahead of time and scrutinize your bill for unused services.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Ask to see your bill the night before you check out, so you can review it carefully for overcharges.<\/p>\n
\u2022 If you\u2019re traveling abroad, be aware that using your cellphone can be mighty expensive. Research your carrier\u2019s international calling plan and ask whether your phone is compatible with foreign networks. You may need to rent an international cellphone, or buy or rent an unlocked phone and international SIM card.<\/p>\n
Letters<\/h2>\n
Normal Heights Community Association<\/b><\/p>\n
Congratulations Normal Heights Community Association for your new group. It is a worthy endeavor that you undertake. May you be informative to and provide a voice for your neighborhood, and have fun at the same time [see \u201cNew Normal Heights Community Association,\u201d Vol. 5, Issue 11].<\/p>\n
Looking forward to Ron joining the Consortium of Community Association Presidents group for conversation and sharing.<\/p>\n
\u2014Luke Terpstra, Hillcrest Town Council chair, via sduptownnews.com<\/i><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/i><\/strong><\/p>\n Great article on the Normal Heights Community Association, and great work by those involved in getting the NHCA restarted [see \u201cNew Normal Heights Community Association,\u201d Vol. 5, Issue 11].<\/p>\n For the record, however, the original NHCA started in 1980, not 1985, and had relit the Normal Heights sign, instigated formation of the Adams Avenue Business Association, started the Community Development Corporation, initiated the monthly Adams Avenue Post, and was in the process of moving the fourth annual street fair onto Adams Avenue when the fire occurred.<\/p>\n The NHCA was involved in producing the Normal Heights Rebuilding Plan, which was delivered to the City Council 30 days after the fire.\u00a0\u00a0The NHCA did, however, initiate the first annual Neighborhood Awards program as a result of the fire.<\/p>\n \u2014Gary Weber of Normal Heights, via email<\/i><\/p>\n <\/p>\n The Verge Salon sparks interest<\/b><\/p>\n Sounds like a great night [see \u201cArt, inspiration and entertainment with The Verge,\u201d Vol. 5, Issue 11].<\/p>\n Thanks, it\u2019s always inspiring to hear about new art\/artist making their way. Hope I can make it to a show some time!<\/p>\n \u2014Cassie Wieden, via sduptownnews.com<\/i><\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Take a skeptical view<\/b><\/p>\n I second David Lundin\u2019s heartfelt plea, published in the last issue, that Uptown News and other neighborhood newspapers take a more skeptical view of information they receive instead of merely embroidering press releases \u2013 especially those from politicians [see \u201cLetters,\u201d Vol. 5, Issue 11].<\/p>\n Even in San Diego, many politicians twist their words to hide their real agendas and make themselves look good. They shouldn\u2019t be taken at face value.<\/p>\n As for other news, not everything that happens in Uptown is a cause for celebration, nor do all plays and restaurants warrant rave reviews. Some recognition of the downsides would induce readers to take you seriously rather than simply use you as a guide to current housing prices.<\/p>\n
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